Erythrocyte-associated apolipoprotein B and its relationship with clinical and subclinical atherosclerosis

Human erythrocytes carry apoB–containing lipoproteins. Subjects with atherosclerosis have lower ery–apoB. High ery–apoB may be protective against atherosclerosis and may reflect an alternative blood cell–mediated lipoprotein transport system in the circulation, in which these lipoproteins less likely interact with the endothelium.